On the 31st May 1997, the cornerstone of the Sanctuary of the Word was blessed by
Archbishop Barry James Hickey in front of the many people who were involved in the
planning and construction of the first New Building of the Seminary. Also present
were catechists, educators, benefactors as well as sharers in the announcement of
the Gospel and the spread of the Word of God in the work of Evangelisation across
Australia and beyond.

Blessing of the Cornerstone

Present were the National catechists of Australia: Toto and Rita Piccolo, Father
Vicente Martin and Stephen with the Rector: Fr Michael Moore SM and the Vice-Rector:
Fr Eric Skruzny.

Archbishop Hickey giving his address

With Fr Vicente and Toto Piccolo are Mr and Mrs Ted Peters, the architects of the
Sanctuary of the Word.

With Fr Michael are Mr and Mrs Michael Lalli, Builder and Structural Engineer.